Piyush Chawla Announces Retirement From All Forms of Cricket

After an incredible career spanning over more than two decades, veteran leg-spinner Piyush Chawla has formally announced his retirement from all forms of professional cricket at the age of 36 in an emotional farewell post on Instagram.

Piyush Chawla—a two-time World Cup champion with India—reflected on his time with the national team, his achievements in domestic and IPL cricket, and the mentors who helped to mold his career. He is looking forward to a new chapter while bringing the spirit of the game with him, having amassed over 1,000 wickets across formats and left a lasting legacy in the IPL.

Piyush Chawla On His Team India Days

“After more than two decades on the field, the time has come to bid adieu to the beautiful game,” he wrote. Throughout his professional journey, he played 3 Tests, 25 ODIs, and 7 T20Is, taking 43 international wickets.

However, his biggest impact, was felt across domestic and franchise cricket, where he amassed over 1,000 wickets across formats. “From representing India at the highest level to being part of the victorious World Cup squads, every moment in this incredible journey has been nothing short of a blessing. These memories will forever remain etched in my heart,” he said.

IPL Success and Heartfelt Goodbyes

Piyush Chawla had a memorable IPL career. Over his 192 IPL matches, he claimed 192 wickets, making him one of the tournament’s most successful bowlers. “A heartfelt thank you to the IPL franchises who placed their trust in me – Punjab Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, Chennai Super Kings, and Mumbai Indians. The Indian Premier League has been a truly special chapter in my career.”

He also expressed gratitude to his coaches, Shri K.K. Gautam and the late Shri Pankaj Saraswat, for shaping him into the cricketer he became. He also added, “Today is a deeply emotional day for me as I officially announce my retirement from all forms of international and domestic cricket. Piyush Chawla’s last professional appearance was for Uttar Pradesh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (Nov 2024), where he delivered standout figures of 4/12 at Wankhede Stadium.

“Though I step away from the crease, cricket will always live within me. I now look forward to embarking on a new journey, carrying with me the spirit and lessons of this beautiful game,” he signed off.